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Sedona is known for its energy vortexes, beautiful views, and abundant hiking trails, but one of the most unique experiences you can have in Sedona is exploring its ancient caves. Let’s take a look at the best caves to visit in Sedona, from the iconic Boynton Canyon Cave to the hidden gem of the Keyhole Cave.

When to Go to Sedona

Choosing the right time to visit Sedona can make all the difference in your experience of this breathtaking destination. Generally speaking, Sedona enjoys mild weather throughout the year, but there are certain times when the region truly shines.

The spring months of March to May are wonderful with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds than in the peak summer months. Fall, from September to November, is another ideal time to visit, with cooler temperatures.

Summer can be hot, with temperatures reaching up to and over 100°F. But, if you’re willing to brave the heat, you’ll still be rewarded with plenty of outdoor adventures.

Winter is also a beautiful time to visit Sedona, with colder temperatures and the possibility of snow dusting the red rock formations.

How to Get to Sedona

Getting to Sedona is relatively easy, with several transportation options available. If you’re coming from out of state, the closest major airports are Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) and Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG). From there, you can rent a car and make the scenic drive to Sedona. It takes approximately two hours from Phoenix and 45 minutes from Flagstaff.

If you prefer not to drive, there are are shuttle services available from the Phoenix Airport. I’ve used Groome Transportation and they have always been very reliable.

Once you arrive in Sedona, getting around is easy, with many attractions, shops, and restaurants located within walking distance or a short drive from each other. For some of the more popular hikes, you can also try the Sedona Shuttle. Additionally, there are several tour companies that offer guided tours of Sedona’s most popular sights.

What to Bring to Sedona

When packing for Sedona, there are a few key items you won’t want to forget. First and foremost, comfortable shoes are a must, as Sedona has plenty of hiking trails to explore. Be sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the Arizona sun. Also, bring plenty of water to stay hydrated during your outdoor adventures.

If you plan to visit Sedona during the cooler months, be sure to bring a warm jacket as temperatures can drop significantly at night. And of course, don’t forget your camera or smartphone to capture the natural beauty of Sedona.

Best Caves in Sedona

Before we start, visitors to the caves in Sedona are urged to treat the sites with respect. Each of these caves holds significant cultural and spiritual importance for the region’s Indigenous communities.

Boynton Canyon Subway Cave

The Boynton Canyon Subway Cave is one of the most IG-worthy photo spots and caves in Sedona. The cave is named for its unique shape, which resembles a subway tunnel.

This cave is located in the heart of Boynton Canyon and can be accessed via a moderate hike. Make sure to take the Gorden’s Ridge via Boynton Canyon Trail on AllTrails. This trail with take you to the right of the fork, about 1.9 miles in, ultimately leading you to the cave. If you take a left, you will be directed further into Boynton Canyon. It is a longer hike that to me wasn’t really worth it.

How to Get in the Cave:

Once you get to the cave, the easiest, least scary way to get into this cave is to climb up what looks like a slide. To the left side of the “slide”, it looks like there are steps, but they’re a lot farther spaced apart than you think. Don’t go that way. As long as your shoes have good traction, you’ll easily climb up the “slide” on the right side.

The same side you went up is the easiest to come down. You can also trek around the ledge up top, on the right side in the above picture. However, the drop-off may make some uncomfortable. If so, go back down the way you came. Then, head across to somewhat of a stairway up to the ledge on the other side. Here you will find a few ancient ruins to explore.

Parking:

The parking lot is pretty small for this trail and fills up very fast. However, there is actually plenty of street parking so I wouldn’t worry too much. You may just need to walk a bit to get back to the start of the trail. Parking at many of Sedona’s trailheads is $5 per day which can be paid by credit card at the kiosk. If you have an America the Beautiful Pass, you can place that on your dash instead.

When to Go:

Get here for sunrise so you don’t end up in a giant line for a photo of the Subway Cave.

Trail: Gordon’s Ridge via Boynton Canyon Trail

Length: 4.4 miles

Elevation Gain: 485 ft

Route Type: Out & back

Difficulty: Hard (I would say more Moderate than AllTrails rating of Hard)

Soldier Pass Cave

Soldier Pass Cave is one of the most popular caves in Sedona, located near the Soldier Pass Trailhead. This cave is accessible via a moderate hike, which takes visitors along multiple viewpoints before finally reaching the cave.

You’ll first reach Devil’s Kitchen and then the Seven Sacred Pools before reaching a tree with a wilderness sign. There was also a rock down below the tree with “cave” written on it in chalk. However, considering it was written in chalk, it’s not likely to still be there. I’d recommend just downloading the map on AllTrails.

When you get close, you will first see what looks like a cave. However, the entrance to the Soldier Pass Cave is actually a little farther to the right of this first cave opening.

You will have to help launch each other up into this cave. There were a few stacks of rocks to help hoist you up, but shorter people like me may still find this to be a bit difficult. For more red rock views, climb the rocks at the opening in the back. Here you will be greeted with an amazing view from up top!

Trail: Soldier Pass Cave Spur Trail

Length: 2.8 miles

Elevation Gain: 541 ft

Route Type: Out & back

Difficulty: Moderate

Keyhole Cave

Another unique and fascinating cave in Sedona is the Keyhole Cave.The Keyhole Cave is named for the keyhole-shaped opening at its entrance. Are we getting that Sedona names many sights after what they look like?

This cave can be accessed via a moderate hike and is much less visited by tourists. I had this cave to myself the entire hour I was there.

It is easy to get lost on this trail. It is not well-marked and there are a lot of paths shooting off from the trail that will confuse you. I’d highly recommend, as always, downloading the map before you go.

The last 0.2 miles up to the cave are the steepest. I’d recommend bringing trekking poles and sturdy shoes for this part. I did slip a few times on the way down, almost onto a cactus!

If you don’t mind a crowd of tourists, the Birthing Cave is very similar and has better red rocks views.

Trail: Keyhole Cave via Sugarloaf Trail

Length: 2.2 miles

Elevation Gain: 472 ft

Route Type: Out & back

Difficulty: Hard (I would say more Moderate than AllTrails rating of Hard)

Birthing Cave

The Birthing Cave is located in a secluded area of Sedona and can also be accessed via a moderate hike. The parking lot is small, but there is plenty of street parking.

Where to Take a Photo:

The left side of the cave (left in the photo) is where most people take a picture. You will need to scramble up the back/side of the cave. Then, walk along the left edge of the cave.

To get a full picture from the inside of the cave, you will need a wide-angle lens. To get the widest angle from the inside of the cave, you will need to scramble up to the belly button at the back of the cave. It’s basically a seat at the farthest back side of the cave. I honestly think the photo on the left edge of the cave is better.

Best Time to Go:

The best time to photograph the inside of the Birthing Cave is sunrise when the cave is lit up. Head here for sunset, if you’d prefer better views of the red rocks out in the distance.

For a less crowded cave, try Keyhole Cave.

Trail: Birthing Cave Trail

Length: 2.0 miles

Elevation Gain: 291 ft

Route Type: Out & back

Difficulty: Moderate

Sedona is a red rock wonderland, and its many caves are sights not to be missed. So if you’re planning a trip to Sedona, be sure to put these must-visit caves on your itinerary.